Work has started on a huge regeneration scheme in Grimsby to create a new multimillion-pound leisure, retail and food destination.
GMI Construction Group has started work on the scheme at Freshney Place which is described as one of the largest regeneration projects in the town’s history, injecting investment to transform the site into a leisure and food hub with a complementary market. The investment, backed by the Government and North East Lincolnshire Council, aims to revitalise the shopping area in the port town to secure its long-term economic future.
Principal contractor GMI, which was appointed by the council’s regeneration manager Queensberry, will build a modern market hall with new facades and interiors, alongside a new five-screen cinema and leisure facility. Three commercial unit are also being constructed for potential cafe, bar and restaurant operators while a new public square will create a focal point, surrounded by upgraded shopfronts within the Market Square area. Three existing retail units are also poised to get a makeover.
The scheme has attracted interest from key tenants, with local operator Parkway Cinema signing up for the cinema and Starbucks confirming its return, while discussions continue with a leading food outlet. The first phase of work involves an internal strip-out and demolition of the existing market hall and rooftop carpark. There will also be a partial demolition of the former BHS store and several commercial units in Flottergate Mall and the Bullring.
Ed Weston, GMI’s commercial director, said: “We are proud to be part of this transformative project that will breathe new life into the town centre. Our expertise in delivering both urban regeneration projects and high-quality mixed-use developments will ensure that Freshney Place becomes a vibrant destination for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.”
Paul Sargent, founder of Queensberry, and the council’s development and asset manager for Freshney Place, said: “We are looking forward to working with GMI’s team on this critical regeneration project that is vital to the continued success and popularity of Freshney Place. This is the sort of placemaking everyone talks about, but not everyone gets the opportunity to create.”
Leader of North East Lincolnshire Council, Coun Philip Jackson, said: “We’re on a hugely ambitious journey, with significant investment of public funds across our towns and borough. We’re investing in one of the largest schemes this council has ever invested in, and I’m pleased to be working with GMI on this significant contract.
“Our Freshney Place regeneration scheme is, in my firm belief, the most important regeneration project we have seen in North East Lincolnshire. It is key to the future of our town centre – underpinning the other regeneration taking place as well as securing the future of Freshney Place and the 1,700 local jobs it supports.”
The investment builds upon wider regeneration efforts across Grimsby, complementing projects such as the Onside Youth Zone and a new housing development at Garth Lane.
